BY PAUL MITCHELL
North Country This Week

CANTON – The Canton Village Board is expected to revisit serving as the lead agency on a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act grant that could provide funding up to $500,000.

The COVID- driven funding could assist small businesses, child care centers and even housing needs.

Canton’s Director of Economic Development Leigh Rodriguez told board members at last month’s meeting that United Helpers is interested in participating in the grant program for its Behavioral Health Clinic adjacent to the University Plaza on Rt. 310.

“It’s good money out there and the hoops aren’t quite as extraordinary to jump through,” said Trustee Carol Pynchon. “We got to have it.”

“We are looking for public input to see what we should apply for,” stated Mayor Michael Dalton.

Last month, the Canton Town Board opted not to be the lead agent, citing the move to be too labor intensive and financially burdensome.

With the village as the lead agency, only small businesses, and other qualified entities within the village limits will be eligible for possible grant money.

“We want to look at what’s eligible and what’s not with the state,” said Rodriguez.

The deadline for the village to apply is June 30.